mainstream-media Articles
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President Joe Biden publicly stating he plans to stay in the presidential race has caused viral discussion online and among Democrats. There are passionate debates on both sides, but especially within Biden’s own constituencies. MIG Reports data shows a split among those who hope Biden stays in to beat Trump at any cost, and those who vehemently insist he step down.
Biden's Increasing Health Concerns
Biden's mental and physical health have nearly overshadowed all political conversations in recent days. Critics often raise concerns about his age and clear cognitive decline, with many pushing for him to step down.
More Democrats are now saying a younger candidate like Kamala Harris or others should take the helm. Some Democrat leaders, including Nancy Pelosi, also insist that time is growing short for Biden to make a decision.
Voters across the political spectrum discuss the possibility of Biden suffering from dementia, Parkinson's, and other health issues. This focus on the President’s increasing feeble appearance causes many to question his ability to handle the pressures of the presidency.
Democrats are now split on whether Biden can withstand another rigorous campaign. His supporters often dismiss these concerns as baseless attacks meant to undermine Biden’s credibility. They argue he is capable of fulfilling his duties and the media is making unjustified claims.
Other Democrats say, even if Biden does not have the capacity to continue as the sitting president, they are not bothered. A viral clip of Whoopie Goldberg promoting a similar idea went viral, drawing criticism from Republicans and some Democrats.
Whoopi: "I don't care if [Biden] pooped his pants. I don't care if he can't put a sentence together. Show me he can't do the job, and then I'll say, okay, maybe it's time to go...I have poopy day all the time. All the time." pic.twitter.com/QlMHzH8LF9
— Nicholas Fondacaro (@NickFondacaro) July 8, 2024Any Blue Won’t Do
A salient point in the conversation is the perception of party loyalty and internal disarray among Democrats. The idea that influential Democrats and former supporters are now withdrawing their support for Biden is gaining traction.
Notable figures and entities, such as a Disney heiress and a growing number of mainstream media outlets, are shifting their allegiance or calling for Biden to step aside. Recent news that fervent Obama supporter George Clooney is calling for Biden to step down displays the significant fracture among Democrats.
George Clooney urges Joe Biden to step down as the 2024 Democratic nominee for president in a new op-ed:
— Variety (@Variety) July 10, 2024
“We are not going to win in November with this president. On top of that, we won’t win the House, and we’re going to lose the Senate. This isn’t only my opinion; this is the… pic.twitter.com/EArMreTtMkThis swell of infighting among Democrats gives critics space to argue that a party in disarray will weaken their chances in the upcoming election. Many are also questioning whether VP Harris could carry the ticket, should Biden step down.
Trending Sentiment
Sentiment toward Biden is polarized. There’s a mixture of die-hard support and vehement opposition. Supporters champion his achievements and leadership, expressing frustration towards those within the party who are contemplating a replacement. They argue Biden represents stability and a return to normalcy compared to the chaotic tenure of his predecessor.
Opponents paint a grim picture of Biden’s presidency, attributing various national issues to his leadership and suggesting that his running for re-election would be detrimental to the country. They evoke strong imagery of moral and political decay, centering on personal attacks against Biden and his family.
For undecided voters, the ongoing discussions introduce an element of uncertainty. They are weighing the implications of Biden continuing his presidency against emerging critiques and alternative possibilities. The growing divide may influence undecided voter perceptions of party stability.
Independents, often swayed by pragmatic considerations and a broader perspective beyond strict party lines, are closely observing these developments. The Democratic Party's ability to maintain coherence and present a strong, unified case for Biden’s continuance remains a key factor for these voters. Visible rifts and intra-party dissent may deter their support, emphasizing the importance of how Democrats manage these narratives moving forward.
Conversations among those aligned with the Uncommitted Movement—a pro-Palestinian movement critical of Biden’s Israel policy—have added another layer of complexity to the debate. While not all primary-held states have an “Uncommitted” option for Democrats, notable results included:
- Michigan: 13.3% Uncommitted
- Minnesota: 19% Uncommitted
- New Jersey: Approximately 9% Uncommitted
- New Mexico: Approximately 10% Uncommitted
Online discussions suggest this movement is likely to continue through August and the Democratic National Convention. However, if Biden stays in the race, he will likely receive the official nomination via Zoom, without attending in person.
12
Jul
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A recent scoop alleging President Biden and his staff have been concealing ongoing visits from doctors who specialize in Parkinson's Disease created firestorm among voters and the press.
As Biden’s approval plummets and Democrats begin jumping ship, the White House is struggling to keep media and voters on their side. Sentiments toward the Biden family and allegations against them have reached lows in the mid 30% range over the last 15 days.
Mainstream Media Finally Wakes Up
Mainstream media and Democratic pundits have been responding with sharp criticisms toward Biden and his administration since the President’s disastrous debate performance. While some are still attempting damage control, trying to maintain a semblance of unity and stability, most seem to be turning on Biden.
Many observers suggest media figures, who have long been feigning ignorance of Biden’s clear cognitive decline, are turning on Biden because they believe he cannot win the election. Articles and reports from mainstream media outlets notorious for supporting Democratic narratives are now, for the first time in his presidency, asking tough questions about Joe Biden.
Figures like Joe Scarborough are generating harsh criticism for, just weeks ago, claiming Joe Biden was “more than cogent” and completely fit to serve. Now, those same talking heads are calling for Biden to step down—deepening distrust many Americans already held towards the media.
A Soviet-Style Coverup
In a recent White House press conference, Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre struggled to address questions about the allegations of Parkinson’s and medical exams. She claimed medical privacy privileges and security concerns for doctors involved.
Meanwhile, mainstream media reporters voiced dissatisfaction with the official White House responses. They said urgent questions about the president's health justify a release of public information, rather than suppression of information by the administration.
Truly incredible clip.
— Greg Price (@greg_price11) July 8, 2024
Jean-Pierre is asked over and over again why a Parkinson’s expert visited the White House multiple times.
She says she can’t answer for “security” and “privacy” reasons.
Literally the worst press secretary ever.
pic.twitter.com/7ZUKLSWH6tMore media representatives are now expressing frustration and dissatisfaction at White House talking points. They emphasize the lack of transparency to the press, which garners scoffs among many voters who believe the press, until now, has been complicit. Criticisms grew even more sharp the next day, as Karine Jean-Pierre admitted to lying about O’Connor and Dr. Cannard’s White House visits.
The pressing nature of Biden’s health concerns is making his administration’s inability to provide clear answers particularly concerning for many Americans. This frustration is also causing significant backlash toward Biden as a candidate and his family who are rumored to be pushing him to stay in the presidential race.
A Puppet President?
Allegations of President Biden being controlled by unelected figures like Jill Biden and Hunter Biden are also gaining traction. However, while Republicans and many Democrats balk at the idea of unknown and unelected individuals or groups running the White House, some Democratic voters insist it doesn’t matter as long as Trump loses.
One viral NBC news clip shows Parkinson's expert Dr. Tom Pitts explaining Joe Biden’s clear and obvious signs of the disease. He also says, as a Democrat, he has been shocked to witness the dystopian level of gaslighting from the White House—which he likens to a Soviet Union propaganda campaign.
NEW: Parkinson's expert Dr. Tom Pitts tells NBC that Biden clearly has it. No debate.
— End Wokeness (@EndWokeness) July 9, 2024
He compares the coverup to the Soviets.
This is coming from a lifelong Democrat. pic.twitter.com/BcR0btWhjaFollowing the chaotic White House press briefing, it is not just critics who are calling out the Biden administration. More and more Democrats view the administration’s non-answers as indicative of a coverup.
Republican Voter Reactions
Among Republicans, there is a palpable sense of vindication combined with indignation. Many on the right have long questioned Biden’s fitness for office. The media and Democrats finally admitting their own suspicions only seems to increase Republican suspicions that Democrats have acted disingenuously.
Republican voters are not only concerned about the implications for national leadership but are also actively using the news to criticize the Democratic Party's apparently failing strategy.
While many Republicans believe Biden should step down for the good of the country, they also say it would be politically advantageous for them if he stays in the race. They view Biden's health issues as compromising national security and undermining public trust. However, some Trump supporters fear if Biden is removed, any other challenger could pose a problem for Donald Trump in the general election.
Democratic Voter Reactions
Democrat voters seem more defensive, with various reactions. There is a mix of concern for Biden’s health and frustration at the optics and handling of the situation. Many loyalists maintain that Biden remains the best option to uphold the party’s values and policies. They also say he may be the only person who can beat Trump in November.
Yet, a faction of Democratic voters is urgently calling for more transparency and possibly re-evaluating their support. Calls for Biden to step down are increasing within the Democratic base as worries mount around the long-term implications if he stays in.
Many Democrats also feel a deep sense of betrayal and concern over Biden’s health revelations. His obvious fragility has prompted supporters to grapple with questions of being lied to. There are also disagreements about whether Vice President Kamala Harris is a capable a safety net, should Biden become incapable of continuing his duties.
11
Jul
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The media landscape swiftly turned after the first debate as mainstream outlets suddenly started calling for Democrats to remove President Joe Biden from the ballot. This sudden narrative shift is generating a mix of heated rhetoric and disagreement among Democratic voters.
Following his disastrous debate performance on CNN, even the most notoriously partisan pundits quickly turned against Joe Biden. However, there is growing tension in the Democratic Party about whether this is the right move. Those who want Biden to continue are growing more critical of anyone calling for Biden to step down.
The Overnight Media Pivot
Biden's recent debate performance acted as a catalyst for discussions about his ability to win—or even last through a second term. Many voters point out that, prior to the debate, any discussion of Biden’s cognitive or physical health was completely dismissed by mainstream media. This stark contrast is igniting severe criticism toward the perceived hypocrisy of media figures who seem to parrot Democratic Party lines.
After the debate discussion exploded about Biden’s stamina, cognitive ability, and overall suitability to continue in the race. In the days following, there has been a flood of fact-checking claims and accusations of bias against mainstream media outlets.
The responses from media giants like CNN and MSNBC are being scrutinized by American voters who notice the sudden shift. Opinions are split along party lines about whether these networks are demonstrating adequate journalistic integrity.
Americans on Both Sides Distrust Media
Democratic sentiment on social media and in media reporting reflects widespread concern about Biden's viability as a candidate. This worry manifests through suggestions and editorial pieces from outlets such as the New York Times, calling for Biden to step down. They, Democrats hope, can create a stronger Democratic position against Trump.
Many view increasingly frantic calls for Biden's removal as a sign of panic within Democratic ranks. They say the panic is exacerbated by multiple media outlets suggesting alternative candidates. CNN, for instance, reported internal Democratic anxieties post-debate, highlighting a sense of unrest and the potential for significant changes in the party's strategy.
Conversely, there's a palpable frustration and backlash from Biden supporters who argue against this narrative. They insist the President, despite an off night, should not be disqualified based on a single performance. This camp is vocal about perceived double standards, noting the lack of calls for Trump to withdraw despite his numerous legal challenges and controversial actions. This sentiment is particularly strong among individuals actively engaged in political discourse online, suggesting an ideological battleground over media fairness and accountability.
Democrats Align with Party Narratives
Reactions from Democratic voters to media stories that align with party talking points seem to indicate the base will move with shifting narratives. Poll results post-debate indicate some movement in public opinion, with noticeable swings among Democrats regarding Joe Biden.
There are also many undecided voters reacting to the debate performance with evolving views. However, the predominant view among Biden supporters is the idea that focusing on one debate will damage the party’s chances amid larger policy and cultural conflicts.
07
Jul
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Conversations after the first presidential debate unleashed fears about President Joe Biden's mental acuity. The president’s lackluster debate performance confirms his fitness as a focal point or worry among media outlets and Democratic Party officials.
Following the CNN debate, there are a range of reactions from the public and various political stakeholders. There’s significant concern within the Democratic Party about Biden’s cognitive capabilities, but this concern does not seem to be uniform among Democratic voters.
Many Democratic supporters actively defend Biden, highlighting his policy successes against derisive critiques from his Republican opponents. They echo Biden’s narratives about the stock market, government figures in jobs markets, and strategic actions in the oil market. These supporters tend to emphasize that, despite concerns over his age and mental acuity, Biden aligns closely with American values they cherish. They say he remains a preferable candidate compared to Donald Trump.
On the other hand, there are also critical voices within the Democratic base who are becoming increasingly vocal about their doubts regarding Biden’s ability to serve another term effectively. These critics suggest exploring alternative candidates to ensure strong leadership moving forward.
Among the broader public discourse, Biden’s age and mental sharpness frequently surface as contentious topics. This ongoing debate over his cognitive fitness seems to reflect deeper divisions within the party and among the electorate on the future direction of Democratic leadership.
There is also a conspicuous trend of partisanship coloring these discussions. Supporters of Biden often juxtapose his perceived shortcomings against what they consider the more severe failings of former President Donald Trump and his supporters. This ongoing comparison underlines much of the sentiment within Democratic circles that, regardless of Biden’s condition, he represents a far superior option to any Republican candidate.
28
Jun
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Anticipation for the first presidential debate moderated by CNN reporters Jake Tapper and Dana Bash is generating controversy. Many, especially conservatives, express skepticism about whether the debate moderation will be rigged in favor of Democrat narratives. People point to the historical biases they see in both moderators and on CNN’s network.
The most pervasive concern is CNN's recurring bias against Donald Trump. Many voters say they do not trust Jake Tapper and Dana Bash to allow a fair debate. People are especially citing Tappers past comments about Trump his role in promoting Russiagate and other controversies.
Nobody Trusts Jake Tapper
Criticism against Jake Tapper is especially pronounced. There's a common theme that he is profoundly anti-Trump, with an inability to remain fair. Many discuss his ad nauseum coverage of the narrative that Trump is essentially Adolf Hitler.
Oh look, debate moderator Jake Tapper repeatedly comparing Trump to HitIer.
— End Wokeness (@EndWokeness) June 24, 2024
I'm sure this debate will be 100% fair.
pic.twitter.com/isshrBs72GMany also point out Tapper's role in covering and legitimizing the leftist media’s Russiagate narrative, which has now been thoroughly disproven. They also cite his inability to hold a neutral stance when reporting on Trump’s comments or actions.
Here is Jake Tapper angrily demanding CNN cut off live coverage of Trump being greeted by Cubans in a Miami restaurant pic.twitter.com/zYFkGHQ2Ct
— Jack Poso 🇺🇸 (@JackPosobiec) June 24, 2024Viral Clip of CNN Cutting Karoline Leavitt’s Mic
There is also significant outrage over a viral CNN clip in which Trump spokesperson Karoline Leavitt’s mic was cut when she criticized Jake Tapper. Many vies this incident as evidence of CNN's unwillingness to allow dissenting opinions, fueling calls for Trump to boycott the network's debate altogether.
The abrupt end to Leavitt's interview has compounded fears that any criticism of the moderators or the network will not be tolerated during the debate.
Like and retweet if you think Jake Tapper will be a partisan hack during the debate.
— Mike Lee (@BasedMikeLee) June 24, 2024
pic.twitter.com/ZYersdOb1YTrump supporters express outrage at CNN’s clear bias against Trump and his allies. They argue Leavitt was well within fair bounds to point out historical biases from Jake Tapper. Voters view the incident as an attempt to suppress legitimate criticism of CNN’s impartiality.
Fears About Mainstream Media Bias
Another major point of contention is CNN's decision to restrict independent media from streaming or providing real-time commentary on the debate. Voters view this as a deliberate attempt to protect the so-called “elite media” and prevent alternative perspectives from reaching the public.
Right leaning voters call out CNN as a "propaganda network" rather than a legitimate news organization. This sentiment is not new but has intensified with the approach of the debate. These CNN critiques often include ire toward the broader media landscape.
Americans express suspicion around media covering up election rigging, censoring opposition, and manipulating voters with politicized narratives. These arguments express a broader disenchantment with mainstream media’s role in elections and American politics generally.
With a strong belief in mainstream media bias against conservatives, Trump supporters fear possibilities like:
- Moderators pushing unfair and slanted questions.
- Accusations about Trump’s felony convictions—to which he cannot respond by gag order.
- CNN producers muting Trump’s mic when he’s speaking.
- Conditions set up to hide Joe Biden’s declining cognitive state.
There is also a repeated belief the debate will be more of a three-against-one scenario, with Joe Biden, Jake Tapper, and Dana Bash combining forces against Donald Trump. Critics say Tapper and Bash will prop up Biden by framing the narrative in his favor, effectively silencing Republican voters.
Predictions About Candidate Performance
How voters perceive the potential performances of each candidate varies with political views. Trump supporters hope he will dominate the debate, leveraging his strong debate skills, clear communication, and ability to generate viral television moments. They often contrast him favorably against Biden’s lackluster public performances and his administration’s poor legacy. Conservatives are generally confident that Trump, even with inevitable media bias, will gain the upper hand.
Democratic voters believe Trump’s performance will contrast poorly with Biden's. They expect Trump to resort to combative and inflammatory rhetoric rather than substantive discussion. They express hope the debate will highlight what they see as Trump’s erratic and dishonest tendencies. This group also urges the moderators to challenge Trump rigorously on issues like the economy and social justice.
Related Debate Conversations
There is also some talk about Robert F. Kennedy Jr. being excluded from the debate stage. Many believe this undermines democratic processes and fuels accusations of bias from conservatives, Independents, and even some moderate Democrats.
This is a particularly sore spot since Kennedy qualified according to CNN's own criteria but is still being left out. Some also voice objections over the fact that neither Trump nor Biden have been officially nominated for their Parties. People view this as a greater injustice, saying a one-on-one debate is highly irregular before the Party conventions.
Adding to the controversy is a demand for Joe Biden to take a drug test before the debate. This unusual request stems from public opinion and media denial that Joe Biden is not cognitively or physically fit to be president. Many believe Biden's handlers provide him a cocktail of drugs before public appearances in hopes that his deterioration can be hidden.
27
Jun
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Two controversial reversals in Snopes fact-checks are causing online discussion and controversy. Debates over Donald Trump's infamous "very fine people" comment and Ashley Biden's diary are fervent.
Snopes, a left-leaning fact checking website, reversed its previous fact-check that Donald Trump called neo-Nazis “very fine people” after the Charlottesville protests of 2017. In April, Snopes also reversed a fact check about whether the contents of Ashley Biden’s diary were confirmed, changing its rating from "Unproven" to "True."
These reversals are stirring public sentiment and cast a spotlight on broader issues of media trust and political bias – both of which look to have influence on voting trends in the 2024 election.
Very Fine People Hoax
The media’s continual characterization of Trump’s "very fine people" comment has long been contentious. President Joe Biden, in 2019, launched his campaign citing this now-debunked claim that Trump called neo-Nazis fine people.
Many Americans feel Snopes’s revisions validate their previously held beliefs either about mainstream media's unfair portrayal of Trump or its broader role in pushing political narratives.
Among Trump's supporters, there is a palpable sense of vindication. They argue Snopes admitting Trump’s comments were mischaracterized demonstrates how media and fact-checker spin has fueled a biased narrative against the former president and other conservatives.
This skepticism toward media is fueling a deeper mistrust of news and fact checking outlets. It also seems to encourage voters’ growing resolve to support Trump more fervently in the upcoming election. Trump's base, which includes a substantial portion of rural and working-class voters, is therefore likely to remain steadfast or grow.
Critics of Trump view the Snopes revision as problematic. They contend that, while the retraction might be technically accurate, it could be weaponized to downplay the serious implications of Trump's rhetoric.
Anti-Trump voters fear such reversals may perpetuate a dangerous narrative and embolden extremist views. This skepticism towards media corrections could boost voter turnout among those who oppose Trump, particularly in urban and suburban areas where such views are more prevalent.
Ashley Biden’s Diary
Regarding Ashley Biden's diary, the Snopes reversal regarding it authenticity and content have further deepened partisan divides. Right-leaning Americans suggest the original fact-check of the diary was another among many attempts to shield the Biden family from scrutiny.
Biden critics argue this reversal exposes a concerted effort within the media to protect Biden. The reversal also reinforces their belief in a biased media that unfairly attacks conservative figures while ignoring liberal misdeeds. This perception bolsters support for Trump and could attract more undecided or moderate voters who are increasingly skeptical of media integrity.
Conversely, left-leaning voters and Biden supporters are disheartened by Snopes's reversals. They interpret these actions as caving to pressure and contributing to the spread of misinformation. Many believe such admissions could have a demoralizing effect, potentially dissuading some voters from participating in the election due to a feeling of disillusionment with the political process and media landscape.
However, there's also a counter-effect among those who perceive these reversals as hair-splitting. These exhausted voters may be energized to fight against what they see as manipulation and misinformation.
25
Jun
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In a White House press conference, Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre recently claimed clips of Joe Biden looking confused are "cheap fakes." These comments, particularly dismissing footage of former president Barack Obama leading Biden off stage by his wrist, are causing uproar among those who view the president as clearly in cognitive decline.
White House Gaslighting
Most average voters who witness Biden’s ongoing deterioration at public appearances perceive the White House comments as blatant gaslighting. This group says the White House is attempting to dismiss any negative portrayal of Biden as fabricated, attempting to undermine any legitimate criticism.
Many say labeling inconvenient clips as "cheap fakes" is a tactic to delegitimize opposing voices and maintain a favorable image of the administration, even at the expense of reality. These voters are concerned that Democrats are actively eroding trust in American, reinforcing a belief that government is manipulating information to maintain control.
Others see the White House’s dismissal of any negative story related to Biden as consistent with past efforts to suppress information. For them, Hunter Biden’s laptop denial by Democrats and the media symbolizes a broader pattern of lying to and insulting the public.
Some also say the White House Press Secretary made up the term “cheap fakes,” as a desperate attempt to confuse people. They say Jean-Pierre wanted to imply the videos are deep fakes but knew she could not say it outright since they’re not deep fakes.
Memes and Resurfacing Biden Clips
Online reactions to Press Secretary Jean-Pierre claiming footage of Joe Biden walking around confused and fumbling his words are “cheap fakes” often include memes, insults, and outright disbelief.
Drefanzor Memes for the win. Karine and her cheap fakes.pic.twitter.com/Ud3ScoXyxX
— Citizen Free Press (@CitizenFreePres) June 19, 2024Many right leaning voters took the opportunity to post clips of Joe Biden currently and from years past, reminding everyone the White House has broadly labeled them all “cheap fakes.”
CHEAP FAKE ALERT:
— End Wokeness (@EndWokeness) June 19, 2024
A new video is out that seemingly shows President Biden struggling to go inside a Suburban.
An anonymous source says that what ACTUALLY happened was Biden was demonstrating how difficult life is for handicapped people of color. pic.twitter.com/3yotZYPKj1Wow look at these “deep fakes” and “cheap fakes” and “manipulated” videos of Biden’s gaffes and mumblings! Why would Republicans do this?!
— Libs of TikTok (@libsoftiktok) June 19, 2024
It would be really bad if everyone tagged @PressSec asking her about this!! pic.twitter.com/qCJ1jqo3j3Frustrated Americans who are fed up with feeling the White House and mainstream media constantly lie to voters also ripped outlets like CNN, CBS, and MSNBC for unquestioningly regurgitating Biden administration talking points.
BREAKING: @CBSNews falsely claims that raw footage of Joe Biden at the G7 was "DIGITALLY ALTERED."
— Andrew @ Don’t Walk, RUN! (@DontWalkRUN) June 19, 2024
Here is a video comparing the "cheap fake" with the raw footage. Please note that they are EXACTLY THE SAME! pic.twitter.com/41AwLVC32ZCNN spent almost all day warning people about cheap fake videos yesterday.
— Big Fish (@BigFish3000) June 19, 2024
They needed to interview their own staff. pic.twitter.com/GyTamOniNWMainstream news figures like Brian Stelter and Nicole Wallace both received flack online for their breathless support of the White House narrative about Joe Biden. Many in the media focus on the alleged cheap fakes, while leaving questions of Biden’s health completely unasked.
‘CHEAP FAKES!’ The Biden campaign is so screwed that today, they rolled out a new strategy to tell Americans they can't believe their own eyes when seeing video evidence of Biden's mental decline.
— Breaking911 (@Breaking911) June 18, 2024
They're panicking. pic.twitter.com/ShG2M8ikm5CNN must be desperate for talking heads since they brought on Potato Head to defend Biden from “cheap fakes.”
— I Meme Therefore I Am 🇺🇸 (@ImMeme0) June 20, 2024
Apparently, Biden’s campaign is worried that people will see, with their own eyes, Joe's mental and physical decline. pic.twitter.com/iSqAVA5KsSDemocrats Spout White House Talking Points
Progressive Democrats say they believe Jean-Pierre’s explanation and insist it's a necessary effort to address misinformation in the digital age. They argue with the proliferation of sophisticated editing tools, it is crucial for the administration to call out manipulated content. For these partisan voters, promoting the party line is a matter of safeguarding democracy, even if they don’t personally believe it.
Though many Democrats are unwilling to speak out publicly about Joe Biden’s mental and physical health, MIG Reports data suggests many are questioning it. Plummeting approval numbers for Biden and increased conversations about Biden’s ability to lead the country suggest even Democrats don’t believe White House rhetoric. However, many Democrats also seem willing to prioritize beating Trump over shielding the country from an incapacitated Joe Biden’s second term.
21
Jun
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Hillary Clinton's unexpected appearance at the Tony Awards has gotten fawning praise from liberals and disgust from conservatives. In her short speech, she mentioned her failed presidential campaign, celebrated women’s suffrage, and appealed to all Americans to get out and vote.
Many viewers were exhausted to see such a divisive figure like Clinton at an event traditionally dedicated to celebrating theatrical achievements. They view this disconnect as another indicator that mainstream media and entertainment are biased to the left.
Hillary Clinton gets standing ovation in surprise appearance at #TonyAwards pic.twitter.com/wtiKBLDjxK
— Deadline Hollywood (@DEADLINE) June 17, 2024A tweet from Deadline Hollywood showing a clip of Hillary Clinton's appearance garnered significant criticism both for Hollywood and Hillary herself in the replies.
Liberal Elites Can’t Get Enough of Themselves
Supporters argue Clinton's presence is a positive endorsement of the arts and a recognition of their cultural significance. To them, her participation symbolizes how politics and entertainment can collaboratively advocate for important social issues.
Partisan celebrities and political figures say they appreciate a seamless integration of political figures into entertainment venues. They view it as an opportunity for politicians to engage with different audiences and to humanize political discourse.
Media and progressive narratives frame Clinton's appearance as an endorsement of the arts, rather than an opportunistic and desperate attempt to pump up Joe Biden’s campaign. Many in this group deny that entertainment is increasingly being politicized by Democrats, instead claiming both art and politics stand to gain from greater visibility and mutual reinforcement.
Normal Americans are Exhausted by Elite Smugness
Conversations surrounding her appearance also bring attention to the disconnect between political elites and average voters. Many people see her presence at such events as indicative of a cloying political strategy that fails to resonate with everyday concerns.
They argue political figures hobnobbing with celebrities at glamorous events, like Joe Biden’s recent fundraising event, reveals they are out of touch. People feel the struggles of ordinary Americans who face real-life issues are diminished by theatrical political pandering.
Many who used to be fans of art and culture also believe awards shows, which have become extremely politicized, should be apolitical entertainment. They believe the arts should be an escape from the relentless news cycles and partisan battles.
Normal voters say the appearance of political figures at entertainment events feels invasive, turning what should be moments of levity and creativity into platforms for political grandstanding. This sentiment is particularly strong among those who feel the entertainment industry already leans too heavily into political advocacy, often at the expense of diverse viewpoints.
Criticism Toward Hillary and the Media
Critics also argue that Clinton is one of the worst offenders when it comes to alienating voters and appearing insular and self-congratulatory. For this group, Clinton’s appearance is not only out of place but downright insulting. Most view Clinton as a washed-up politician who cannot let go of her loss to Trump in 2016.
This perception is particularly acute among voters who are weary of the symbiotic relationship between mainstream media, Hollywood, and the political elite. They view these entities as working together to marginalize dissenting voices and dismiss substantial issues facing Americans.
Further exacerbating these tensions is a broader sense of frustration at the entertainment sector becoming increasingly politicized—and almost exclusively in service to liberal ideologies. Leftist bias, conservatives say, diminishes trust in both the media and political figures. It also alienates conservatives, promoting a sense of disenfranchisement in those being sidelined by elite and media narratives.
Overall, Hillary Clinton's appearance at the Tony Awards once again spotlights the contentious relationship between politics and entertainment in America. While liberal elites praise the gesture, most Americans view it as a cringey attempt by elites to maintain their power over politics and the culture.
20
Jun
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Video of former President Barack Obama escorting President Joe Biden off stage at a high-profile fundraiser is igniting conversations on social media about Biden's regular gaffes and confusion. The main themes revolve around concerns about Biden’s health, political strategies, and broader societal and institutional implications.
Biden freezes before Obama grabs his arm and leads him off stage. Yikes! 😳 pic.twitter.com/nCgAGitoQ6
— RNC Research (@RNCResearch) June 16, 2024Is Biden Unfit to Serve?
Many users are expressing alarm at President Joe Biden’s recurring moments of confusion or freezing on stage. More Americans are viewing these increasingly frequent episodes as a clear sign of his deteriorating health. The sentiment that Biden cannot be responsible for running the country is growing.
Discussions frequently reference Biden’s age and present it as a critical issue that impacts his capacity to govern. Sentiment is often inflammatory, highlighting a sense of urgency and alarm. There is also frequent mockery, memes, and brutal criticism, as Americans watch Biden's cognitive abilities erode in disbelief.
Biden’s supporters and those who dismiss the event downplay Obama leading the president off stage. These voices argue the incident was overblown by political opponents and media seeking to distort the narrative for sensationalism. They deflect, highlighting Biden’s accomplishments and capabilities, suggesting the short video clip does not reflect his overall performance and leadership.
Blue Collar Versus Tinsel Town
Another trend in the discussion is the increasing association of the Democratic Party and its key figures, including Obama and Biden, with Hollywood elites. This fundraiser, which featured high-profile celebrities like George Clooney and Julia Roberts, has resulted in criticism about the Democratic Party being out of touch with ordinary Americans. Social media posts imply a growing discontent with what some perceive as liberal elites' ignorance of the challenges everyday citizens face.
There is also a resurgence of the long-standing political rhetoric portraying leftist ideologies as communistic or socialistic. Some take the opportunity to paint Democratic leadership and their policies as fundamentally un-American or destructive.
These conversations often assert Democrats are utilizing manipulative strategies, like including amnesty for illegal immigrants and mass propaganda through mainstream media, to secure electoral victories. Many even believe Biden has escaped serious problems like potential prosecution because of special treatment.
Trump Supporters Pounce
Furthermore, there is significant backlash when people compare Biden to former President Donald Trump. Trump's supporters are leveraging this incident to emphasize their belief in Trump’s competency and leadership strengths. They say, despite his own controversies, Trump represents a more robust and capable alternative to Biden.
There are also comparisons between the fundraising efficacy of both political figures. Many point out that, despite glitzy Biden fundraisers and Trump's legal woes, Trump’s campaign is generating substantial grassroots financial support from many small donation donors. This draws a stark contrast with the Hollywood-centered donations for Biden.
Lastly, a segment of voters are focusing on the broader societal consequences of current political actions. They argue Biden’s administration, perceived as aligned with extreme liberal policies, is making the United States vulnerable to internal and external threats.
Concerns about border security, perceived leniency towards illegal immigrants, and an alleged erosion of American values are frequently mentioned. This fuels a broader narrative of an existential crisis facing the nation, with Biden depicted as a figurehead in a larger ideological battle.
19
Jun